The Commissioner of the Auxiliary Medical Service (AMS), Dr Ronald Lam, today (February 2) visited colleagues on duty at the AMS Headquarters in Ho Man Tin, and extended his New Year greetings to them and thanked them for their anti-epidemic work during the holidays.

     Accompanied by the Chief Staff Officer of the AMS, Mr Wong Ying-keung, Dr Lam was briefed by members of the AMS on their daily work. In the past year, following the volatile development and changes of the epidemic, there has been a surging demand for the AMS services in the community. The AMS flexibly deployed its manpower and resources under different circumstances to provide services to members of the public. For instance, on October 24 last year, apart from deploying manpower to participate in anti-epidemic work and provide routine services, the AMS also deployed nearly 800 members to provide first-aid and nursing care services in the Standard Chartered Hong Kong Marathon.

     Entering the Year of the Tiger, Hong Kong is affected by the fifth wave of the COVID-19 pandemic which brings enormous pressure to the anti-epidemic work. On January 24, the AMS escorted 862 person-time of close contacts in 24 hours, hitting the highest record since the start of the pandemic. On the last day of the Year of the Ox, apart from performing daily anti-epidemic work including escorting close contacts, being on duty at the medical stations in the quarantine centres and assisting in enforcing the Prevention and Control of Disease (Compulsory Testing for Certain Persons) Regulation (Cap. 599J), the AMS also assisted in evacuation work in three housing estates and an elderly home, deploying around 300 staff members. Furthermore, the AMS has since yesterday (February 1) started providing assistance to medical stations in 10 quarantine centres or hotels. Dr Lam expressed his appreciation to all members and recognised the AMS' work efficiency.

     The situation of COVID-19 infection remains severe. Dr Lam appealed to all staff members to stay vigilant and always maintain personal hygiene. Dr Lam also reminded all to take the third dose of COVID-19 vaccine as soon as possible to protect themselves and others.

Ends/Wednesday, February 2, 2022
Issued at HKT 18:01

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